Closing the Books on 2024: Chelan City Council closed its books on 2024 and approved both the Airport 2025 budget and 2025 City budget after they were pulled from the large Consent Agenda. Finance Director Jackie Tupling stated, “There are no changes from the workshop and the budgets are ready for adoption. Both were adopted unanimously.
Branding services contract 454 Creative Services was on the Consent Agenda and was pulled from the agenda for discussion. 454 Creative Services will provide graphic design services for the Mayor’s newsletter template, business cards, and social media designs at a cost of $17,000.
Councilman Terry Sanders
Councilman Terry Sanders asked HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman if he could share with the council how 454 Creative was selected for this service contract.
Coltman said he had worked for the firm as a creative director and that they were an excellent design firm that he hoped would develop into a good working relationship with the City.
Communications Director Chad Coltman
No other solicitations by Coltman were requested for these services.
Motion Considerations: RH2 Professional Services Agreement: Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the council that RH2 does a lot of work on city facilities. “We have been satisfied with their work over the years,” said Youngren.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
MMEC Architects: City Council voted unanimously to approve a $219,000 time and materials Professional Services Agreement for a Facilities Conditions and Needs Assessment. This assessment will look at all of the city’s facilities, and in particular the aging city hall and the golf course clubhouse. “They will receive a more thorough examination than other facilities,” said Youngren.
MMEC Architects: The Council also approved a separate $246,000 agreement to design a new Chelan Recycle Center. This is also a time and materials service. The old Recycle center burned down in July of 2024. Youngren stated that many discussions and evaluation needs had taken place since then. The City’s insurance company will be paying for the new center.
Legal Services: The Council unanimously approved a new agreement with Kottkamp, Yedinak and Esworthy, PLLC for Indigent Criminal Defendants. City Attorney Quinn Batjer said the price for these services have increased to $113,000 from the past amount of $75,000 in 2024. “Typically public defenders are overworked,” said Batjer. “It is a considerable increase over last year.” Finance Director Tupling added that the agreement would be amended in 2025.
City Attorney Quinn Batjer
In addition to the increase, Batjer stated that the Washington Supreme Court is redoing the until 2026.”
TIF (Tax Increment Area): Council agreed to remove the end of year deadline which allows for a more flexible approach to evaluating property tax allocations and potential mitigation requests when new construction occurs. This extended timeline will enable the City to assess the potential impacts of future development on critical public services, including levels of service for the Fire District and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Aligning the mitigation requirements with RCW 39.114.020 ensures compliance with state law while allowing for informed decision-making,” said Community Development Director John Ajax. “We need a little more time and the Fire District is working with us.”
During the Mayor/Council Comments, Councilman Bob Goedde said that there is a rumor that Chelan County is getting ready to introduce a TBD (Transportation Benefit District) within the county.
All of the Council members wished everyone a happy holiday season and a Merry Christmas.
Mayor ProTem Tim Hollingsworth thanked the staff for all their hard work and remarked that the City will be facing a number of challenges in 2026.
City Budget: Chelan City Council and Chelan staff held a final budget workshop on Tuesday, December 3.
The meeting was a quick review of the budgeting process that has been taking place since October 1 through November 12. The budget is balanced and ready for adoption at the council’s December 10 council meeting.
Chelan Finance Director Jackie Tupling.
The council had no questions regarding the Lake Chelan Airport 2024 year end Budget Amendments.
Mayor McCardle called for any final questions regarding the budgets. “My expectations are that all discussions and questions have been asked,” she said.
Mayor McCardle
Facility Conditions and Needs Assessment: Public Works Director Jake Youngren told council that the City put out a request for qualifications for the city’s facility conditions and needs assessment.
Jake Youngren
MMEC Architecture and Interiors responded to the request with a $219,000 proposal. This work consists of four phases designed to evaluate, plan and propose improvements for the city’s facilities including City Hall; Kelly Allen Insurance Bldg; Chelan Library; Lake Chelan Golf Course Club House and Maintenance Bldg. the Park Department’s Maintenance and Administrative Bldg’s; and the Public Works Administration Bldg.
Recylcling Center update: MMEC also responded to a request from Public Works for a proposal to provide architectural/engineering services on a Recyle Center replacement after the original center burned down last July.
MMEC bid $256,400 to do the work beginning this month with construction beginning in late spring of 2025. Jake Youngren, public works director, commented that the price proposed reflects the construction world “we live in. Billing rates are high.”
Youngren said that a third party reviewed the proposal, made a few adjustments and then approved it. Insurance is paying for the new center and also hired a third party consultant to review MMEC’s proposal and also approved it. “Every day we wait, it gets more expensive,” said Youngren.
The new center will cover the same square footage, but Youngren isn’t sure where it will be situated.
Until the new center is build, all recycled materials are being dumped at the regional landfill. “We tried to find alternatives, but they were all too expensive,” stated Youngren.
Community comments: Linda Sydloski informed the City Council that she is considering running for a council seat in the future. She has been a regular at council meetings for a number of months. “Thank you for what you do,” she told the council.
Linda Sydloski
Final Budget public hearing: Jackie Tupling presented the council with her budget details that will be discussed for any changes at the next council workshop on December 3.
Finance Director Jackie Tupling
The required public hearing on November 26 covered the following items:
Proposed revenues and expenditures for all budgeted funds, beginning and ending projected cash balances. 2. Summary and explanation of changes in expenditures for operating funds. 3. Summary of major revenues history and proposed 2025 budget amounts. 4. Detail of agency and community organization funding requests and budgeted amounts. 5. Detail of proposed payroll changes.
Chamber lodging tax extension City Administrator Wade Farris asked the council to approve a three-month extension for the contract committee to complete revisions to a new Chamber contract agreement. “The goal is to live with the new agreement and be happy with it,” said Farris.
City Administrator Wade Farris
Finance Officer Jackie Tupling added that the new agreement will require the Chamber to give a monthly overview to the council of how they have spent lodging tax funds. “This way everyone will be able to see where those funds are being spent.”
Councilman Bob Goedde remarked that the committee is moving in the right direction. The Chamber has been operating on an extension to their old agreement for the past two years.
Chamber Festival Support: The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce had requested an additional $150,000 from Chelan County several months ago. The request was turned down by the County’s lodging tax advisory committee.
The Chamber has requested the same amount from the City which have agreed to a $150,000 loan for Festival Support to help fund January’s Winterfest event. This support is not to exceed $150,000 annually. It is called the Chamber Festival Reserve Fund to help support weather dependent events.
Tupling stated that the loan must be paid in full by the end of the year.
Biosolids Contract: Public Works Director Jake Youngren told council that the biosolids agreement is between Boulder Park, Inc., King County and the city. It has been in place since 1998. The contract allows the City to dispose of biosolids from the sewer treatment plant to the Mansfield flats. The four year contract ends on December 31.
Jake Youngren, Paul Horne and Jackie Tupling
Youngren told the council that the biosolids are applied for nutrients for agriculture purposes. “We are kind of small fish in a big pond,” said Youngren. Under the contract, the city provides 125 tons of biosolids each year at a cost of approximately $500.
The new contract will have a term of five years.
Emergency Management Wade Farris introduced the new contract proposal from the Chelan County Department of Emergency Management and told the council that the contract amount went up considerably. “Their role is to do everything they need to do during an emergency,” stated Farris.
The City has contracted with Emergency Management since 2002. The City contracts with the Sheriff’s Office for these emergency services and costs are assessed on a per capital basis. In 2024 the rate was assessed at $3.08 per capita and the 2025 rate has gone up to $3.75 per capita. The financial implications are $4,282.30 per quarter or $17,129.20.
Rate and Fee Resolution: Farris remarked that the council had a good discussion on the amended Rate and Fee changes. Tim Hollingsworth wanted to make sure that the Chelan resident and Valley resident parking fees at Chelan Parks remained at $25 and $45 respectively. City Clerk Peri Gallucci replied that those parking fees have not increased for 2025.
Hollingsworth also said his business was being charged 1.5 ERUs. Youngren replied that he wants to have a conversation about the sewer/water rates. “It’s not quite equitable in all situations. We need to have a conversation about it in 2025.”
Administrative Reports: Finance Director Tupling gave a proposed operating budget amendment to the council.
City Clerk Peri Gallucci reported on the continuation of the Just FOIA Master Services Agreement for the Public Records Portal.
Peri Gallucci
A Library Advisory Board update was given.
Jake Youngren told the council that the Transportation Benefit District finally passed by a mere five votes and was now certified. He also stated that funding raised from the district will be used for very specific projects with the help of the community and council. “They will come up with a game plan.”
Paul Horne said that the Parks Board had a walkabout on November 20 which took in the Lakeside Park neighborhood.
Jackie Tupling reported on the final review of the City’s 2022 State Audit and will be getting a report back on the audit in December.
John Ajax reported the Planning Department is taking a strategic look at climate resiliency with the County. “We are looking at the general scope of work.”
Mayor/Council comments: Brad Chitty remarked that 2024/2025 was his first budget. “I appreciate all the hard work.”
Terry Sanders reiterated Chitty’s remarks and said, “I appreciate the detailed work done by staff.”
Mayor McCardle called out the individuals who always attend council meetings. “We have regulars and I am glad you are here.”
She also reported that she has been nominated to be on the board of the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council.
McCardle also noted that on January 30 she would have a State of the City Report on what was accomplished in 2024 and plans for 2025.
The City will hold a workshop on December 3 beginning at 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend but will not be allowed to speak unless approved by Mayor McCardle.
Airport Board: Council approved the airport 2025 budget.
The city invited other non-profit organizations who didn’t make the initial cut for Community Benefit Funds to present their needs for 2025. With benefit funds of $111,000 already allocated for the 2025 budget, these requests, if approved, would be funded out of either the Housing Fund or Tourism dollars.
Currently the city’s housing fund only has $170,000 and the Tourism Fund is at $5 million plus.
Jackie Tupling Chelan Finance Director
When added up, the requests equal $312,320 as follows:
Chelan Valley Feral Cat Project $ 10,000
Chelan Valley Housing Trust $100,000
Heritage Heights $ 16,400
Lake Chelan School District $ 30,000
Lake Chelan Habitat for Humanity $105,920
911 Glass Rescue $ 50,000
Jackie Tupling said that Chelan has received only $15,000 from the State for housing.
Erin McCardle stated that those funds could also be used for capital projects. “It takes a very long time to fill that fund back up. That’s something to think about.”
Tupling stated that the Lookout provides $1,000 for every new home sold to the city’s housing fund.
Feral Cat Project: April Leaf and Wendy Isenhart presented the case for continued funding for the feral cat project. The project has been successful in trapping feral cats and Leaf reported that 286 cats have been helped.
Feral cat director April Leaf and volunteer Wendy Isenhart
The $10,000 requested is $5,000 more than the city granted the project for 2024. The project has received $7,496 in private donations. This year $12,000 has been spent on veterinarian services and another $320 on administrative services. It costs $450 to neuter a male cat and $200 to spay a female cat.
Communications Director Chad Coltman asked how many cats have been helped specifically in Chelan and whether or not Chelan County provides any funding for the project. Leaf replied that the cats are trapped throughout the valley and that the county doesn’t provide any funding.
Housing Trust: Executive Director Scott Meyers of the Chelan Valley Housing Trust stated that the city has provided funding in the past and he wants to see those grants continue. “Our goal is to build homes for wage earners,” said Meyers
Housing Trust executive director Scott Meyers
The request for $100,000 would help support the organization’s operational costs, landscaping costs at Harbor Meadows and $20,000 for its operations budget.
Heritage Heights: Heritage Heights requested $16,400 from the city for WiFi connections, telephone system, purchase of computers and printers and three new wireless access points in the facility.
Heritage Heights Melissa Robbins and the new CEO, Joel.
Melissa Robbins explained that the non-profit has an all-volunteer board. “The city has been a contributor to this project in the past. Our building is old and has bad WiFi. We have a lot of things that are not normal,” said Robbins.
Lake Chelan School District: Superintendent Brad Wilson and the district are requesting $30,000 to improve ballfields and gymnasium surfaces. Wilson remarked that the softball and baseball fields are used for tournaments before Memorial Day and after Labor Day and provide a number of overnight stays by parents and teams.
Chelan School Superintenent Brad Wilson
These programs denote overnight stays; Chelan youth wrestling, youth fastpitch; Kahiau Volleyball Club; baseball; basketball; Babe Ruth baseball and Bachfest. Other programs supported by the district include FC youth soccer; Valleywinds Musicians; Adult pickleball and tennis and Thrive.
Mayor McCardle asked if this request was a one-off request or a recurring one. Wilson replied that if they can get the community fields in shape it would result in a lot less requests from the city. She asked about the gymnasiums and Wilson said the funding would help pay for resurfacing of the Community Gym.
Habitat for Humanity: Michelle Fanton, executive director of Habitat, is requesting $105,920 to continue providing homes for families who qualify. “We have served 17 families with homes. These homes fall within 30% of their incomes,” she said. All prospective families must be from Chelan.
Michelle Fanton – Habitat executive director
The organization is highly dependent on volunteer labor and the funding is also provided by the Habitat store. City funding would help Habitat keep neighborhoods clean and revitalized, expand homeowner education, staff time to develop other sources of funding, help pay for infrastructure reimbursements to offset the costs of development at Pumpkin Lane in Chelan.
911 Glass Rescue: Julie McCoy said the $50,000 requested would help the glass recycling get back into operation by early 2025.
911 Glass Rescue representative Julie McCoy
Mayor McCardle stated that the request might have to wait until the 2026 budget process. McCoy stated that the organization needed to have it considered in the 2025 budget so the program could move forward.
Chelan lost its glass recycling when the recycling center burned down.
Requests: All of the above requests will be discussed and decided on prior to the final budget hearings.
Grizzly bear meeting tonight: Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gering told attendees at Tuesday evening’s Manson Community Council meeting that Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Chelan County is hosting a “Living with Bears” meeting at Chelan Community Center.
Tiffany Gearing
“There will be several guests to help us out with the next steps if reintroduction of grizzly bears happens,” said Gering. Guest speaker Tina Jo Bradley, Chair of the Montana Conflict Reduction Consortium and Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Front Ranchlands Group, will be on hand to talk about living with grizzly bears.
Representatives from the National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife will also be on hand to explain how the reintroduction will go forward and how they arrived at the decision to put grizzly bears into the North Cascades ecosystem.
“People can share their concerns, but it’s already been decided,” stated Gering. The last sighting of a grizzly in the North Cascades was 1996.
Many people opposed to the reintroduction of grizzly’s say that if they wanted to be there, they would be there.
“Most people don’t support the effort,” explained Gering who added that the timeline has been M
This meeting should be of interest to anyone in the community that is concerned with an apex predator being introduced in the neighborhood. The big question is exactly where they will be released, but I’m sure Pacific Crest Trail users will be concerned and perhaps Stehekin residents
Manson Community Forum: The next Manson Community Forum is scheduled for October 15, beginning at 6 p.m. at Northshore Bible Church on Wapato Parkway. Manson school and Library representatives have already indicated that they will attend. “The Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council will also be in attendance,” said Kari Sorenson-Krause. She expects other agencies and organizations to join.
Council chair Kari Sorenson-Krause
Community Collaboration meeting: A collaboration meeting between the Manson Chamber of Commerce and the council has tentatively been scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 9 at 9 a.m. The purpose is to explored potential changes that could help the community and businesses. More information on this meeting will follow.
501 (C) 3 Councilman Mike Kirk reported on the steps for the council to become a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization that would open up a number of opportunities for the council apply for grants and raise funding. He explained that the council needs to write bylaws as required by the federal government, provide a Tax Payer No. and an address. “Chris (Willoughby) has offered his address as the official address until we can get a Post Office Box,” said Kirk. “All council members will have to sign.”
Mike Kirk
Incorporation study: Kirk reported on the efforts to have an incorporation study conducted for Manson. “Some studies have been paid for by (representative) counties and others by the State Department of Commerce,” said Kirk. Gering replied that she would like to know how other counties have paid for incorporation studies. She asked Kirk to find out which counties have paid for studies and she would find out how they did it.
Kirk reported that the State Legislature would have to pass a resolution for the Department of Commerce to pay for a study which has cost $190,000 in the past. “We would like to kick it off in January,” said Kirk.
The study would help determine the pros and cons to incorporation.
He also suggested that the council invite the new elected officials to the December meeting. “By then we will know who will be our new county commissioner,” he said.
Totem Pole road project: Gering told the council that she didn’t have any good news on the county’s Totem Pole Road project. “It is still happening,” said Gering. “We are having trouble with funding. What was a $4 to $5 million project is now estimated at $9 million.”
The current plan stated Gering is to do the stormwater portion from Wapato Way to Green Avenue with Phase II up to the school in the early fall of next year. “We will start in 2026 while the county continues to find funding.”
Roses Lake contamination: Gering also reported that there is a bacteria toxin in Roses Lake and the recommendation is for small children or pets to stay out of that lake. Whatever this toxin is, it apparently disappears in winter. She said a sample is being sent to Ecology and that Mike Kaputa, Natural Resources director is following up on this report. He did not mention it at the Watershed Planning Unit meeting earlier in the week.
Gering also reported that the county was conducting a homeless housing survey to try an figure out where it can get information.
Post Fire Meeting: Gering said that the commissioners will be holding a post Pioneer Fire meeting with the National Park Service, Forest Service and DNR to air issues with the management of the fire. “We also are inviting Senators Cantwell and Murray, Representative Schier and Hilliary Franz. The sheriff will also be in attendance. No date has been set yet.
Short Term Rental issues: Change to the current codes in both the county and the City of Chelan are in front of their respective planning commissions.
Gering said that the county planning commission is asking why the STR code needs changing and what the problems are. “We will get answers to those questions to the planning commission next Tuesday at 10:15,” said Gering. It will be a ZOOM meeting for those wanting to attend.
Gering added that if you are operating without a permit, you are done. She said lodging taxes are down this year. “I think a lot of people are renting without a permit and not paying taxes.”
The county has received numerous calls from angry residents over how the STR renters are abusing the neighborhoods. This includes parking, loud parties, garbage and host of other things.
Kirk asked if the county was comparing current STR rentals with COVID. Gering replied that the county was going back 20 years.
Flint Hartwig, a candidate for Gering’s commission seat, was present at the meeting. He said after COVID things completely changed in the STR market. He also stated that the housing market is drying up. “After COVID everybody went to Mexico or Europe,” he said, adding, “the market is moving.”
Gering said that over the last two years, the county has received 170 complaints. There is a 24-hour complaint line on the County’s website – 509-293-4577.
Marcus Smith, an orchardist, said that people come to the valley for the open spaces. “If we don’t do something, it (agriculture) is going away.”
The next meeting will be the second COMMUNITY FORUM at North Shore Bible Church’s “Sowers Hall on October 15 beginning at 6 p.m.
August primary ballots will be in the mail on July 15. There are two major issues on the District 3 ballot including Chelan County Fire District 5 Replacement Levy and a choice of four candidates to fill the Chelan County Commission seat being vacated by Tiffany Gearing.
The four candidates vying for her seat on the commission include Senator Brad Hawkins; Representative Keith Goehner’s staff assistant, Brandt Cappell; Manson Fire Commissioner Chris Willoughby and Wenatchee developer Flint Hartwig.
Following is a brief description of each candidate and what they feel is the most important priority facing Chelan Count over the next four years.
Brad Hawkins: “My primary focus, if elected, will be to help diversify the County’s economy,” said Hawkins. He also wants to maintain a balanced budget and mitigate the growing property tax issues. “If we continue to grow and get Malaga (Microsoft development) onto the tax rolls, that should help to moderate some property taxes.”
Senator Brad Hawkins
Hawkins has a long and successful public service record and is currently a Washington State Senator. He is vacating that position to be closer to family. The recent redistricting would have had him constantly on the road.
“My knowledge and relationships (at the state level) will help bring resources to the County,” More information about Hawkins is available at www.bradhawkins.org. He can also be reached at 509.393.3231.
Brandt Cappell: Cappell, who is currently Representative Keith Goehner’s Legislative Assistant stated that he has been focusing on issues in the Chelan/Manson area. Over the past several months he has attended many Chelan and Manson meetings to learn what issues are foremost”. “I’m trying to get the lay of the land,” he said.
Brandt Cappell
Cappell, if elected plans on opening an office in Chelan to be close to District 3 constituents and the Valley’s emerging issues. He is interested in getting in front of what is happening in the local agriculture industry.
Chris Willoughby: Willoughby’s primary focus, if elected, will be the County’s infrastructure. “Our infrastructure is at the center of everything that goes on,” said Willoughby who added that Entiat’s sewer systems is at capacity and will have to stop development. “Leavenworth and Plain also have infrastructure issues as does Manson.”
Chris Willoughby
Willoughby has been involved in Manson and the County’s politics since 1999 when he first served on the Manson Community Council until 2011. He is also the vice-chairman of Fire District 5s board of commissioners where he has served as a firefighter and EMT since 1988 and 2003 respectively.
He claims that he is not a “politician” and does not believe in them. “I am a long time public servant who represents the communities I serve.” He is also the only candidate who lives in the heart of the 3rd District.
Flint Hartwig Hartwig is the only candidate running for the 3rd District position who has no experience in politics. He is a Wenatchee businessman and developer who wants to streamline the County bureaucracy.
Flint Hartwig
His voters pamphlet promise is to make sure the County is only spending money on the essential roles of government.
“I’m good at getting things done,” said Hartwig. His primary focus if elected would be agriculture, tourism and affordable housing. “I want to fight for you,” he added.
The District 3 Commission seat is an important position for those who live in the Chelan and Manson area. It is incumbent on voters to educate themselves on each candidate running for the position and vote for the one candidate voters will best represent them.
Manson Fire Department Levy request: Manson Fire District No. 5 will be asking eligible Manson voters to pass a new replacement levy to replace the retiring 10-year levy that currently collects $0.89/1000. The district is asking the voters to pass a $0.75/$1000 which is less than the current rate.
The smoke plume of the Pioneer Fire 25 miles up lake from Manson.
Manson Fire District is a successful volunteer department with 40 volunteers, 25 of which are active in both fire fighting and Emergency Services. With only three paid staff, the district is hoping to expand its personnel, offer full-time training for personnel to gain full certifications to meet the needs of the growing Manson Community.
The district is in the process of building a training facility which would be used by all firefighting agencies for training purposes. Fire Chief Arnold Baker reported at a community meeting that other district’s and the Forest Service have contacted him about training and trainee housing at the facility.
The district would also use some of their budget along with grants to replace a 30 year old fire truck along with other equipment needs.
Operational expenses are used for fuel, overall maintenance needs and a hedge against current inflation increases.
Responding to over 100 fire-related calls and 500 Emergency Management calls per year underscores the increasing demand for trained personnel in a growing community.
A levy failure would be disastrous to the district. Budget cuts and reducing volunteers by half would leave Manson without the required safety net for the community.
The Chelan Valley Republican Women held a Republican Candidates Forum Thursday evening, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines featuring all candidates running for elective office on the upcoming August Primary.
It was a nice crowd of interested voters at the Chelan Valley Republican Women’s Republican Candidate Forum on Thursday, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines.
The County will be mailing the primary ballots on July 15.
Fire District 5 replacement levy: Prior to each candidate speaking to the large audience, Arnold Baker, Fire Chief of Manson’s Fire District 5 explained the importance of the upcoming Replacement Levy.
Fire Chief Arnold Baker
The expiring 10-year levy has been collecting 89 cents per $1,000, but with the tremendous growth and increased property tax revenues in Manson, the amount has dropped to 41 cents/$1000. “We are asking for 75 cents per thousand,” said Baker. “It is a lot of money. I understand that,” said Baker.
He added that Manson has more volunteers than it has ever had. The levy, if passed, would help the district up its training, build a training complex, purchase a new fire truck and move a half-time position to full time.
He initially explained that the district is working with the Incident Management Team to protect Manson from the Pioneer Fire if it actually makes it to the community.
“In 2002 during the Deer Point Fire we protected 60 homes with no losses,” said Baker, who was the fire chief at that point also. “Today there are 160 to 200 homes on the same footprint.”
“The Incident Management Team is doing a very good job and are hoping the contingency lines hold. We hope for the best but are planning for the worst.”
Someone in the audience asked why retardant isn’t being used on the fire. Baker explained that there were environmental reasons and the fact that each drop cost $25,000. “I’m thankful for the suppression efforts taking place for our community.” He finished by encouraging the registered voters to vote for the levy.
Speakers: Dave Reichert, Republican candidate for Governor was first up to address the attendees. Reichert told the audience that he sees three major issues facing the State.
Dave Reichert
The Criminal Justice System throughout the State.
Homelessness and the substance abuse and mental illness associated with it.
The Economy and taxes.
Regarding the tax issue, Reichert said the Legislature wanted to raise the property cap from 1% to 3% and that the Legislature tried to put a 15 cent increase on all ammunition sold.
He then brought up the gorilla in the building… the Carbon Gas Tax that is costing vehicle owners up to 50 cents more per gallon. “Inslee could have hit pause on this,” said Reichert. Instead, he said there is a movement to increase the Carbon Gas Tax to 80 or 90% in the coming months.
Reichert also said the State has a $4.1 billion surplus. “Inslee says if we vote No on the increases, there will not be enough money to do all the things that need done.” He also said that $1 billion is missing from Government COVID funding.
He also stated that the Democrats have a tracker on him and are recording everything he says. “We are going to win this race,” Reichert who added, “You need to get out and vote and veto the gas tax bills. We have to get the Democrats to vote for us also.”
Bob Hagglund
Reichert decried the fact that traditionally, only 30 percent of the registered voters actually vote. “We need to get 60 to 80 percent voting.”
Bob Hagglund – Lt. Governor Hagglund said that the Lt. Governor is the President of the State Legislature. He talked about housing affordability and the causes of homelessness including mental illness. “It is time for a new direction,” said Hagglund. “Event the Seattle liberals are getting it. It’s (state government) is not working.”
Sharon Hanek
Sharon Hanek – State Treasurer Hanek told the audience that she has been a CPA for 25; years doing taxes and said she wants to take her experience into the State Treasurers office. “I want to review this system,” she said and asked for their vote.
Brian Burnett – running for State Representative Position 1 (Representative Goehner’s seat). Burnett who has 25 years of experience in law enforcement; 12 years as Chelan County Sheriff, said he has put 3,000 miles on his car visiting District 12 communities. “I have been meeting with amazing people,” said Burnett. “They ask what changes he would make and he replied that constituents need a team that can work as team. “If you don’t get out and vote that is an end game.”
Brian Burnett
Mike Steele – District 12 Position 2 seeking relection. Steele mentioned the $20 million he has brought to the district and that as the minority leader he said he was very excited to represent the district.
Mike Steele
Serving on the Education Committee, Steele remarked that the state is spending $35 billion on education alone. “I want to give the power back to the parents,” said Steele. “We need to change our focus and are one vote away from the Super Majority.” He added that as the minority they are not even invited into the room.” He stated that it is an interesting job and he is proud to do it.
Chelan County Commission: There are four candidates for Tiffaney Gearing’s District 3 commission seat. All are qualified to hold the seat and the voters will have to make a hard decision on who they want to represent them for the next four years when Gearing leaves the office.
Brad Hawkins
Brad Hawkins Hawkins told the audience that he is looking forward to bring his experience to the 3rd District. His issues he wants to address include the economy of Chelan County, the budget and growing tax burden on property owners, wildfire reduction and the affordable housing situation. He also wants to extend the County’s grant opportunities.
Hawkins is an experienced politician who has served in a multitude of public positions including as a State Representative and State Senator which he is currently.
Brandt Cappell Cappell told the voters that he comes to this position with a new life perspective. He has had a heart transplant and spent 84 days in the University of Washington ICU. Cappell works for Representative Keith Goehner as his assistant and says he knows how to navigate the issues.
Brant Cappell
Cappell said he has been attending meetings throughout the 3rd District to get to know the issues and if elected he would open an office in the Lake Chelan Valley to serve his constituency. He also stated that there is $20 million available to build a new substance abuse clinic and that a new location needs to be found.
Flint Hartwig Hartwig said, “I’ve never been a politician.” He is a developer and owner of the Rock gym in Wenatchee. He sees a massive problem in affordable housing and sets that as one of his major issues to work on if elected.
Flint Hartwig
Hartwig also wants to address the future of farming and tourism in the district without stepping on any toes. “I have real life experiences I want to bring to the commission,” he stated.
Chris Willoughby Willoughby, a Manson resident grew up on a farm and is still an apple grower. With orchards being replaced by developments, Willoughby wants to work on balancing the changes. He has been a public servant all his life and is proud to say, “I am not a politician.”
Chris Willoughby
Willoughby says he looks at issues and asks “What is the solution!” Looking for solutions to the many issues facing the district and County is his promise if elected to the seat. Issues he would like to address include infrastructure, affordable housing and tourism. “We have local people who can’t support themselves here and are moving elsewhere.”
As an orchardist, he sees farming becoming almost impossible as a sustainable business. “This (apple industry) was the industry that helped to build Chelan County and it is disappearing.”
“I want to be your voice. Be informed of who you are voting for.”
Judge Alan Blackman was given a few minutes to address the voters and encouraged them to get the vote out.
The next meeting of the Chelan Valley Republican Women will take place at Radiance Winery on August 8 with Candidate Dave Olson – Superintendent of Public Instruction and School Board Member Susie Metzger as guests.
On Tuesday evening, July 9, Chelan’s Council Chambers filled with unhappy residents over the Fourth of July parking and fireworks issues.
The July 4 Fire on Chelan Butte was handled quickly by Chelan Fire & Rescue.
Citizens Comments: Many of these residents live on Chelan Butte or in the Lakeside community. Margie Lynch, a longtime Butte resident summed up the parking issue by telling the Council that the Butte Road had cars, not only parked on both sides of the road, but double parked. “It became increasingly difficult for emergency vehicles to access the area,” she said. She added that she visited both the Sheriff’s Department and Fire Station where she was told to call RiverCom with her issues. “There was just enough room for my car to drive between the parked cars all the way to the switchback.”
Another resident stated that Lakeside Park is full at 7 a.m. “How do we monitor the parks,” she asked. She also mentioned that vehicles were driving up the Butte Road to Daybreak to watch the fireworks. She, along with others, are concerned about fire.
Another resident told the Council the Sheriff’s Department deputies told her they didn’t have time to write tickets and who would show up in court over a $30 ticket anyway. Her bigger concern was fire risk and the homeowner insurance companies view of that fire risk which is raising insurance or cancelling it.
Another resident addressed the fireworks issue with not enough resources to deal with illegal fireworks. “When the Butte fire started, there were still fireworks going off. We are all losing fire insurance for our homes.”
Mayor McCardle replied to the Citizens that the city needs to work on tougher long-term solutions.
Linda Sydloski brought up safety concerns on the Union Valley Road. “It is so treacherous with the fire traffic and dump trucks. There are no curbs… no guardrails and the dump trucks speed down the road.” She thought it would be good to put speed bumps in to slow traffic.
Parks & Recreation Professional Day Proclamation: This proclamation couldn’t have come on a better day,” said Mayor McCardle. “All of our parks were full this past week. Thank you very much Paul.” She then read the proclamation and entered it into the record.
Mayor McCardle
Parks Proclamation: WHEREAS, the City Council of Chelan recognizes that the citizens of Chelan desire to enjoy the benefits of modern, safe, and well-designed parks and facilities that enhance their quality of life, positively impact their health, foster community cohesion, drive economic activity, and protect our environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council acknowledges that tourism is a primary economic sector for Chelan, that tourists visit to enjoy our lake, and that almost all the publicly accessible lakefront is stewarded by the Chelan Parks Department, with visitors’ impressions of the parks significantly influencing their opinions and memories of our community; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that the operations of Chelan’s Parks Department receive no taxpayer funding and that the Parks Department contributes to downtown beautification, supports other City departments, and benefits our taxpayers at large; and
WHEREAS, the City Council commends Chelan’s park professionals for their dedication to serving the public, providing exemplary customer service, and enriching our community through their work in managing commercial enterprises, maintaining facilities, and developing a strategic plan for the continuous improvement of the parks system into the future; NOW, THEREFORE, IT BE RESOLVED, I, Erin McCardle, Mayor of Chelan, do hereby proclaim July 19, 2024, as “Park and Recreation Professionals Day” in Chelan Washington. Dated this 9th day of July 2024.
Assistant Parks Director: City Council is considering the hiring of an Assistant Parks and Recreation Director who’s position will have an emphasis on Capital Planning and Management of the $24 million dollars of capital projects the Chelan Parks department has on its PROS plan schedule.
“This is to alert the Council to a position that has been discussed for a long time,” Parks Director Paul Horne told the Council at its Tuesday evening, July 9 meeting. “The positions focus will be on capital projects.”
The search for this position will be done in-house and by the new Human Resource Director Chad Coltman who stated that once the job description is finished and approved, the search for the new director would be handled internally through the National Parks Recreation Association. “This will be a full time, non-represented position,” said Coltman. “There are sufficient funds to pay for it,” he added. The position would also be added to the upcoming 2025 budget.
Chad Coltman is the City’s new Human Resources and Communications Director. He will be heading up the search for the new Assistant Parks Director once the position is approved by Council.
Horne asked that the position be put on the next Council meeting’s Consent Agenda.
Mark Ericks asked about the delta funding for this new position description. Coltman replied that it is around $20,000, which takes into account the expanded scope of the new position.
Mayor McCardle added that the position has been in discussion for several months which included whether the position should be union or administrative. “We should have been hiring for this position much earlier,” said Mayor McCardle.
While the primary function of the job will be to assist on capital planning and management, the new employee will also assist in overall Parks operations and, when necessary, stand in for the director when he is unavailable or out of office.
In other City business: City Council unanimously approved a $110,105 bid by Rudnick and Sons, LLC for the Bradley Street and Johnson Avenue Intersection improvements. This work will be accomplished before the school year begins and will allow teachers and school kids to cross from the Community Gym to MOE safely. The project is 90 percent grant funded.
Council also approved a General Services Agreement for on-call survey work with Erlandsen, Inc.
Council approved a Task Order No. 1 – 2024 for Right of Way Dedication Utility Easement No. 1, and Utility Easement No. 2 for the Anderson Road Project. “We have a memorandum agreement with Chelan Fruit for a utility easement through their property,” said Jake Youngren, public works director.
Mayor/Council Comments: Terry Sanders said he appreciated the public comment regarding fires, fireworks and parking issues.
Bob Goedde said Chelan had a totally different crowd over the Fourth of July. “Traffic was terrible and there was fireworks going off all night long… I guess you can’t fix stupid,” said a disgusted Goedde.
Brad Chitty echoed Goedde’s comments. “I remember when we had police here from Seattle to help.”
Jon Higgins thanked the firefighters for all of their work to keep the community safe. He also agrees that parking has become a major issue in the downtown area.
Mark Ericks brought up the fireworks issue and said, “I don’t get it. We had a fire up on the Butte. We need to come up with a game plan.”
Tim Hollingsworth said people need to take personal responsibility for their actions. Regarding parking, Hollingsworth said there has been considerable discussion in the past. “We don’t have the capacity. The parks are abused and overcrowded,” said Hollingsworth.
Mayor McCardle echoed all the comments regarding the issues during the Fourth of July week. “A lot of things happened this weekend. We had incidents on the water. We are sitting here on Tuesday discussing parking issues, but there are so many other issues to consider.”
She added that the City has to get on top of the parking and fireworks issues.
City Council meets every second and fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The Public is encouraged to attend.
Pioneer Fire update -June 12 The Pioneer Fire 31 miles up-lake from Chelan grew to 1,172 acres after a cold front moved in and contributed to its rapid growth.
Four aircraft and 164 personnel are now assigned to the blaze in steep, rugged land that has dry, dead and downed logs from old fires. According to the incident team, this fire may burn for a long time into the future. NOTE: In July 2001, the Rex Creek Fire burned 60,000 acres.
The incident team is working with private and federal stakeholders to protect assets. Handlines are being cut along the Lakeshore Trail which is closed from Prince Creek to Moore Point. Backpackers can access the trail at Moore Point for the hike into Stehekin.
Home Insurance cancellations: David Forte, a senior policy advisor with Legislative Affairs Division of the Washington State Insurance Commision, told a large group attending a meeting held at both District 6 and District 5 Fire Stations and on ZOOM, that insurers look a fire load and the structural content of the outside of each building. “They are looking at how likely the home is to ignite,” Forte told the crowd assembled at District 6. “They are looking at both the load and structure fire risks to determine if they want to cover the property or not,” he added.
A number of concerned citizens attended a meeting at Chelan Fire District to hear from a representative of the Washington State Insurance Commission.
Brandt Cappell, a candidate for Tiffany Gearing’s County Commission seat, told the audience that the insurance issue is a statewide issue.
One homeowner said, “Can you imagine trying to sell your house and can’t because insurers won’t insure it. This issue is so important to all of us.”
At this juncture, it looks like any relief from insurers will have to go through the Washington State Legislative path.
Chelan City Council discusses use of remaining ARPA funds: City Administrator Wade Farris opened a second discussion concerning the use of the remaining $233,000 of ARPA funds for the Boys and Girls Club at the Lake Chelan Community Center.
City Administrator explained the need to allocate the remaining ARPA funds before the end of the year. Once allocated to a project, the City has up to two years to implement.
Finance Director Jackie Tupling said that $225,000 to the Boys and Girls Club, if approved by Council at its next Council meeting, could only be used for tangible items. “None of those funds ar obligated,” she said. However, she added that the rest of the ARPA funds need to be obligated by the end of 2024.
The Boys and Girls Club have become the Community Center’s anchor client and will pay $8,000 per month ($96,000 per year) on their lease of 10,000 sq. ft. at the Center.
Councilman Brad Chitty, who has worked with the Boys & Girls Club in the past, stated that he feels the funds should come out of the General Fund and initially only be for $100,000 to get them started and that they should look for corporate sponsors. Any funds approved by the Council will be on a reimbursement basis. Chitty said, “I am 100 percent behind the Boys & Girls Club,” said Chitty. “It is a great thing for the community.”
Farris replied to Chitty’s remarks saying that the ARPA funds are available on a reimbursement basis and that this is a great way “for us to support the Community Center.”
Farris added that this funding would help serve a large portion of the community by giving parents a place to take their children before and after school while they were still at work.
Mayor McCardle added it was a way for the City to help the Community Center organization get started. She mentioned ARPA funds that have been used by the Food Bank.
Councilman Mark Ericks asked what the redirection of those funds would mean to the Anderson Road Project. Farris replied that the $200,000 ARPA funding attached to the Anderson Road project was there just in case the project ran over the dedicated $700,000.
Councilman Bob Goedde stated he was all for helping the underprivileged children in the Valley and this would better serve them.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said, “I don’t want the City on the hook for $96,000 a year. The more we know about it the better. It is a lot of money.”
Adam Rynd spoke to Hollingsworth’s concerns. “I sit on the board at the Community Center and we have already secured private donations.” Rynd stated the Center will continue to seek more funding through private donations and grants.
Ericks stated that he is a big supporter of the Boys & Girls Clubs but is concerned about on-going expenses. “Somebody has to talk about on-going expenses,” said Ericks. “How are they going to sustain it.”
Watershed meeting: Water rights for Lake Chelan are still being processed. Nine more water right applications have been released. It is apparently taking a month to process each water right.
Mike Kaputa stated that when Chelan’s, the Reclamation’s and County’s applications come up for review they will all be fighting for the scraps. As soon as Ecology is finished in the Chelan basin, Kaputa hopes they will jump on to the Entiat watershed. “I would like to see them focus on Entiat. It is the third largest watershed in the County,” said Kaputa.
The Lake Chelan Research Institute under Phil Long continues to perform water monitoring, particularly on the near shore. The LCRI has been funded by the PUD for three years for these monitoring efforts.
Residents living on the lake continually ask Long how they get rid of the algae growing on their docks and bulkheads. Long suggested power washing and scrapping. A test site has apparently been scrapped and will be monitored to see if the algae re-grows.
The Eurasian Milfoil invasion has grown from a measly 12 acres several years ago to 400 acres now. Methods to remove it include DASH (diver assisted airlift process) which has been estimated at up to $9 million dollars to remove the milfoil and Curly Pond Weed.
Long explained to the group that the PUD only lowered the water level to 1089 feet above sea level this year which didn’t expose the invasive milfoil and curly pond weed to freezing. “We need a management plan to get funding,” said Long.
Lake Chelan’s DDT Levels are the highest in the nation and more work on this issue is needed. The DDT levels in Lake Trout have that species listed at risk for consumption.
Boat inspections continue to be conducted at Lake Chelan’s five boat launch areas; Mill Bay, Chelan, PUD Launch, State Park and 25-Mile Creek. Steven Lasky is managing that program and Kaputa told him he appreciated the way he is handling the job. The program has six inspectors working.
Bull Trout: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service are apparently working on their final draft regarding the re-introduction of Bull Trout to Lake Chelan tributaries.
Kaputa is following up on this major issue. Bull Trout are an endangered species and if re-introduced to the tributaries, it will forever change the sport fishery on Lake Chelan. Some local fishing guides say it would kill sport fishing in the Valley.
Townhall meeting will take place in Manson on Tuesday, June 18 at the Grange Hall in Manson. This meeting will bring together Manson Community Council, Manson Chamber of Commerce, Manson Park’s District and District 5 Fire District to get input from the community on how they can all work together to get Manson issues resolved.
The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. with Council member Chris Willoughby modertating.
Mayor Erin McCardle opened up the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) discussion at Tuesday,’s, May 14, City Council meeting telling the members that they had three options to consider, all of which are sales tax increases of One-tenth of One Percent; Two-tenths of One Percent; or Three-tenths of One Percent.
Mayor McCardle watches a presentati0n on Transportation Benefit Districts.
“Growth and tax revenue has not kept up with inflation,” McCardle said. The TBD funds collected can only be used for transportation projects within the district. The District would only cover the City limits of Chelan.
Chelan Public Works currently has $24 million in identified projects on its Six Year Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Property tax revenue falls way short of even providing required matching funds for transportation grants.
Cities are constantly looking at new funding sources and the TBDs have been adopted by a number of Washington Cities according to Jake Youngren, public works director.
Sales taxes raised through a TBD in Chelan would be split between residents and visitors to the City with visitors paying over 65 percent. Depending on what level the sales tax rate goes up will determine the amount of funding that could be raised.
Councilman Mark Ericks
In 2023 a TBD would have generated the following amounts per year:
1% 8.4% to 8.5% would have raised $ 405,597
2% 8.4% to 8.6% would have raised $ 811,195
3% 8.4 to 8.7% would have raised $1,216,792
Other funding sources for Street Capital Project Funding are raising the cost of CAR TABS which would have a huge impact on locals. Permit fee increases would be low.
An example of how the additional funding would be used would be preserving Chelan’s 42 miles of roadway. Replacing them would cost 10-times as much. “The cost would far exceed our capacity,” said Youngren.
McCardle stated that Chelan is in the bottom half of the State Sales Taxes collected.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the City could justify the higher rate. Youngren replied that they go after transportation grants hard. Hollingsworth then said, “I think the higher amount is justified .”
Councilman Terry Sanders added that because people are tax adverse it’s up to the City to let them know what the options are. Bob Goedde added that he felt the people will understand the need and used the LINK Transit successful tax increase as an example.
Finance Director Jackie Tupling stated that it is important to drive home the 65%+ that visitors would be contributing to the fund.
Goedde feels that the City can do a great job of informing the public.
The City Council unanimously approved a motion to seek a .03% sales tax increase to form a Transportation Benefit District.
All Things Lake Chelan 